The top 10 Hypo-allergenic dogs
If you suffer from allergies, it can be difficult to choose a pet that won’t give you the “sniffles” every time you cuddle with them.
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, as much as 10% of the U.S. population is allergic to dogs, so you’re definitely not alone. The main cause of allergies in humans is caused by pet dander, which is attached to pet hair. As such, dogs that don’t shed hair can be considered hypoallergenic.
However, it’s important to note that there’s no dog that’s 100% hypoallergenic, but there are certainly some breeds that have shown almost no problems to people with allergies. These dogs trap all their dander inside their fur, and since they don’t shed a lot, they don’t release it in the atmosphere. As such, they are much more unlikely to cause an allergic reaction compared to other breeds.
So don’t count out dog ownership just yet! Read our list of the 10 best hypoallergenic dog breeds, so you can choose your next
Top 10 Hypoallergenic Dogs
1. Afghan Hound
The Afghan dog is a loving and independent pet and can be easily identified by its long silky coat. It’s one of the earliest breeds known to mankind, with researchers estimating it dates back thousands of years.
Although they have huge hair, they hardly shed and the majority of the dander they produce gets trapped in the coat. When they do shed, it’s often very systematic, every spring and fall when the weather changes.
2. American Hairless Terrier
Next on our list is the American Hairless Terrier. Its inclusion in the hypoallergenic dogs seems pretty self-explanatory, as it doesn’t have any fur. Without any fur, there’s no chance of dander getting in your airways and causing an allergy reaction.
They are very lively and friendly companions, and can get along pretty well with kids. As such, they would be a perfect fit to any activity family with older children, as they are pretty energetic and playful.
3. Bedlington Terrier
Another terrier in our list of the best dogs for allergy sufferers, this time the Bedlington Terrier. It’s covered in soft and curly fur and resembles a small lamb. They are very cheerful and affectionate, very suitable for families.
Despite their unique coat, they don’t actually shed a lot. But since they don’t shed, their coats grow pretty quickly, and they’ll need regular trimming.
4. Bichon Frisé
If you want a pet that’s full of personality and charm, the Bichon Frisé is the perfect fit for you.
The name comes from the French term “curly dog” due to their poofy white fur that looks like a cloud.
They have endless amounts of energy and love playing around all day, even with children. The Bichon’s hair grows all the time, and since they don’t shed, they require plenty of grooming.
5. Chinese Crested
Similar to the American Hairless Terrier, the Chinese Crested can come in both with and without a coat. Obviously, the hairless version does not shed, but even the coated dogs shed very little.
They do require plenty of grooming, though, but they are still a great option if you’re suffering from allergies. Their personality is fun, playful, and can develop a strong bond with their owner.
6. Coton de Tulear
At number 6 in our list of the best hypoallergenic dogs, the Coton de Tulear smiles with the sweetest little face. They have soft, cotton-like coats that can grow pretty long if not regularly trimmed.
If you’re looking for a loyal companion, you can rest assured that the Coton de Tulear will follow you everywhere you go and develop a strong and loving bond with you.
7. Giant Schnauzer
We finally have a larger breed on our list, so if you prefer bigger dogs, this one’s for you.
The Giant Schnauzer is a working breed and requires plenty of exercise. They also need regular grooming, but don’t shed very much.
If you’re looking for a loyal, hard-working, and obedient dog, the Giant Schnauzer is definitely the pick for you!
8. Irish Water Spaniel
Similar to the Giant Schnauzer, the Irish Water Spaniel is one of the largest hypoallergenic dogs. They also require plenty of exercise and tend to be very active and hardworking.
The Water Spaniel is recognizable by their curly coats and their tapering rat tail. They don’t shed very much and only do it seasonally, but they do require regular trimming.
9. Kerry Blue Terrier
Despite their name, Kerry Blue Terriers can have a multitude of colors, from shades of light blue/grey to dark brown and black. They are very alert and protective, but also affectionate and loving.
Kerry Blue Terriers don’t shed, but they do need regular brushing and trimming.
10. Lagotto Romagnolo
We’re finishing up our list of hypoallergenic dogs with the cutest, teddy-bear looking dog, the Lagotto Romagnolo. They are traditionally bred for truffle searching, earning them the nickname “truffle dog”.
These dogs are hardworking and have an excellent sense of smell. With thick and curly hair, they require regular trimming, but they shed very little.
How to Keep Allergens At Bay
If you’re highly sensitive to pet dander, you can take some additional steps to ensure you can spend as much time as possible with your lovely little dog without triggering your allergies.
- Get rid of carpets and curtains – carpets act as a magnet for all the dander and they can be very difficult to clean. Replace your carpets with hardwood flooring, and your curtains with shutters or blinds. If you can’t replace your carpet, make sure to deep-clean it at least twice a year.
- Vacuum frequently – make sure you get a vacuum with a HEPA filter to trap all the dust and allergens from the air. Once you have the right vacuum, clean at least once a week and empty it outside your home.
- Frequent baths and grooming – to prevent pet dander from accumulating on the coat of your dog, it’s best to brush it and bathe it regularly. Make sure to brush it outside, though, to avoid all that dander getting into the air.
Install HEPA filters in your home – HEPA filtration is the ultimate standard in allergy control, and remove nearly 100% of all microscopic particles.